72-year-old cyclist survives being shot in the head in 'unprovoked' attack

Gunman in passing car shot elderly cyclist six times before driving off

Police tape (Getty)

A 72-year-old cyclist in Australia had a very lucky escape after being shot at least six times by a gunman in a passing car in what police described as an unprovoked attack.

Kelvin Tennant was cycling in the town of Everton, Victoria, when he was shot from a passing car. According to The Age, at least least one bullet hit Mr Tennant in the head, fracturing his skull, and multiple rounds hitting him in the chest.

>>> Driver who hospitalised Essex cyclist 'thought he'd run over a kebab box'

After the incident on Saturday evening Mr Tennant was rushed to hospital, where he is now said to be recovering well, undergoing surgery on Monday afternoon.

Speaking to reporters, Detective Senior Constable Elise Douglas said that the shooting appeared to be unprovoked.

"It's very early days into the investigation, however it does appear that the shooting was unprovoked," she said.

"At this stage it appears there is no connection [between the shooter and Mr Tennant]. However we will continue to look at all avenues and all aspects of this investigation."

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.